Toqi Zargaron — Attraction in Bukhara City

Trading Dome Toqi Zargaron.

Toqi Zargaron Trading Dome is the largest and oldest of Bukhara’s historical covered bazaars. Built between 1569 and 1570 under Abdullah Khan II of the Shaybanid dynasty, it stands as a remarkable example of Persian-influenced architecture. The name derives from “Toqi” (dome) and “Zargar” (jeweler), meaning “Jewellers’ Dome.” Strategically located at a major crossroads known as Chorsu, it was the first trading dome constructed after Bukhara became the capital of a powerful state and a key hub on the Great Silk Road.

The bazaar features a rectangular layout with four arched entrances and a large central dome surrounded by a five-bay arcade. The dome rises impressively, with strong vertical accents. The central hall once housed the shops and workshops of jewelers and craftsmen.

Toqi Zargaron was not only a place of commerce but also a vibrant social hub. Today, it retains its original function—visitors can still shop for handcrafted silver jewelry and local souvenirs, just as traders and travelers did centuries ago.

Now part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Bukhara, Toqi Zargaron remains a popular tourist attraction and a vivid reminder of Bukhara’s mercantile past. As in any market, it is customary to negotiate with sellers and to...

Toqi Zargaron is a fascinating stop in Bukhara—a historical trading dome that offers a quiet but meaningful walk through the city’s Silk Road past. Located near the heart of the old town, it was once the center for jewelers (“Zargaron” meaning “jewelers”), and you can still feel that legacy as you stroll through its vaulted passageways.

The architecture is classic Bukhara: high domes, arched ceilings, and a cool, shaded interior that provided relief for merchants and shoppers centuries ago. Today, it’s home to small shops selling jewelry, souvenirs, and handicrafts. While some of the goods are clearly for tourists, you’ll also find a few hidden gems—especially if you take your time and chat with the vendors.

What makes Toqi Zargaron special is less about dramatic visuals and more about atmosphere. It’s not flashy, but it’s full of quiet charm. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, especially if you go early before the crowds arrive.

As part of a historical walking route through Bukhara’s old town, Toqi Zargaron fits in beautifully. It’s a short but rewarding visit—perfect for anyone who enjoys architecture, local craftsmanship, or just soaking in centuries of history in a...

Toqi Zargaron, also known as the Jeweler's Dome, is a prominent trading dome in Bukhara. Constructed between 1569 and 1570 during the reign of Abdullah Khan II of the Shaibanid dynasty, it is the largest and most architecturally complex of the city's trading domes. Located at a key crossroads, Toqi Zargaron was initially a centre for jewellers, housing 36 workshops where artisans crafted exquisite traditional jewellery. The structure itself, built with ceramic bricks, is notable for its large central dome spanning 14 meters in diameter, designed to keep the interior cool even during hot summers.

Today, while it still retains its historical charm, the dome has expanded its commerce to include a wider array of souvenirs, clothing, tableware, and even musical...